Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s engagement with Kazakhstan Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov in New Delhi marks a significant chapter in bilateral relations, with sweeping discussions on defense, connectivity, energy, and beyond. Held on Wednesday, the talks reviewed progress and charted future collaboration in politics, trade, security, infrastructure, power, new-age tech, and grassroots connections.
Modi commended Bektenov, attending the AI Impact Summit, for his proactive stance. In a subsequent X post, Modi emphasized, ‘Met PM Olzhas Bektenov. His visit will deepen our Strategic Partnership. Huge potential in trade, energy, critical minerals, rare earths, defense, connectivity, and space. We remain committed to elevating our friendship.’
Defense cooperation stood out, with plans for advanced weaponry co-development and joint patrols. Connectivity enhancements target the International North-South Transport Corridor, slashing logistics costs. Energy pacts leverage Kazakhstan’s uranium riches for India’s nuclear ambitions, alongside oil and gas deals.
Emerging fields like AI, semiconductors, and space tech were earmarked for R&D alliances. People-to-people initiatives aim to boost tourism, education exchanges, and cultural festivals.
Contextualizing recent moves, Ambassador Yeskarayev’s meeting with Bina George highlighted Kazakhstan’s reforms: institutionalizing power equilibrium, presidential term limits, and a new vice-presidential entity for robust administration. The embassy stressed these as pathways to accountability, justice, and citizen-centric policies.
Exchanges on consular affairs prioritized migrant protections and dispute resolutions. This summit not only reinvigorates ties but also underscores India’s growing footprint in Central Asia, promising mutual prosperity and strategic autonomy.